About Us

Pauline R. Barker died peacefully at home on January 29, 2013 surrounded by her loving family.

Born May 25, 1920 in Cleveland Ohio, she was the youngest of three children born to parents Mary and Charles Roudman. Pauline grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. A gifted musician, she played several instruments which included piano, cello, violin and mandolin. After graduating high school, Pauline joined the Women's Army Air Corps (WWII) and earned the rank of Sergeant. While stationed in Mitchell Field, New York, she met Murray G. Barker, a handsome young man from Richmond, VA. While dating, Murray proposed to Pauline several times before she accepted his proposal. They were married on August 19, 1945 in Cleveland, Ohio. After serving their country, Pauline and Murray moved to Richmond, VA., and in 1952, they moved to Norfolk, VA. Pauline and Murray were founding members of Temple Israel in Norfolk. Pauline worked at the Naval Safety Center on the Naval Air Station in Norfolk as a key-punch department supervisor. In 1995, she retired at the age of 75 and for her outstanding service was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Award. She was an avid reader and in retirement, she volunteered at the Be a Reader program to assist young children with their reading skills.

Our mother Pauline supported and loved her family with all her spirit and heart. She always knew when her children or grandchildren needed her help and gave it selflessly. She was very independent and wise, courageous and strong, gracious and accepting, and selflessly loved us all without end. We will miss her kind, patient, gentle spirit and her smiles and words of love.

The family wishes to thank Barbra Featherstone for providing wonderful care, friendship and love to Pauline for the past two years. The family also is grateful to High Country Hospice, Mountain Family Medicine and The Cardiology Center of Appalachian Regional Healthcare System (Dr. Paul Vignola) for their loving care and support of Pauline.

Pauline will be buried next to her beloved husband, Murray in a graveside ceremony at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk, VA. The family would appreciate any donations in memory of Pauline be made to High Country Hospice or High Country Caregiver Foundation of Boone, NC. Condolences may be written on –line to the family at Austin and Barnes Funeral Home in Boone, NC or H.D. Oliver Funeral Home in Norfolk, VA.